Freeway race ends in fiery crash, killing three

On behalf of Killackey Law Offices, APC posted in Car Accidents on Friday, March 4, 2016.

Some drivers appear to view the many freeways in Los Angeles as race tracks instead of high-volume roadways. When drivers use a freeway for a race, the results can be tragic as demonstrated by a recent multi-car crash on Interstate 5.

According to the California Highway Patrol, two drivers appeared to have been racing in adjacent southbound lanes on I-5. One of the drivers saw a slow-moving vehicle ahead of him in the same lane and attempted to pass on the right. The driver of the slower-moving vehicle chose that moment to attempt to change lanes by moving into the adjacent lane, causing the racing driver to lose control of his vehicle and collide with a UPS tractor trailer. The big rig hit the center median and flew into the air, shearing the top off of a Nissan sedan. The tractor trailer then hit a Ford Explorer in the northbound lanes. The tractor trailer immediately became engulfed in flames.

Three persons were killed in the accident, but police did not release their names or identify the vehicles in which they were riding. Two others were hospitalized with major injuries. The driver of the speeding vehicle that started the chain reaction was arrested and charged with a number of vehicular homicide crimes. Police do not suspect that either alcohol or drugs was involved in the accident.

Anyone who has been injured or lost a loved one in an accident believed to have been attributable to freeway road racing may wish to consult a lawyer who specializes in handing auto accident cases. Such a consultation can provide helpful advice about various legal strategies and an estimate of the likelihood of recovering damages for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering.

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